The France international’s inconsistencies are well known – and you’d imagine Sam Allardyce wouldn’t take too kindly to his limited defensive work-rate. But on his day, the 27 year-old is undoubtedly one of the most formidable widemen in the Premier League. Here’s a collection of ‘the Geordie Messi’s’ best goals from his spell on Tyneside: And Karim Benzema thinks he could’ve played for Barcelona!

Benzema (Madrid): “If Ben Arfa would have followed the right path, he’d play at Barça with Messi now. Technically, they’re similar.” [lp] — barcastuff (@barcastuff) June 18, 2014

With just a year left on his contract and no love left for him at St. James’s, the four-time Ligue 1 winner could be available for around £5million according to Mirror Football, but a surprise swoop from Liverpool has also been speculated.